Vintage and Collectible Wedding Gifts On Display at Blue House Antiques in Canton, CT

Visiting The Wedding Window at Blue House: Nice Old Things in Canton, CT

When I stopped into "The Blue House: Nice Old Things" in Canton, CT over the weekend, Kim, the owner,  asked me to see her "Wedding window".   Kim created a display of lovely vintage and collectible glasswares, dishes, serving pieces that a new bride would enjoy. As June is a popuar wedding month, I thought the "Wedding window" was a terrific idea for an Antique booth in a mall or for a store. If you were setting up a similar dispslay in your shop.....what would you add to your display?

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

What Would You Do With An Old Rusty Bed Frame: Garden Art or Junk ?

Garden Junk Art Has Lots of Possibilities

While visiting The Blue House Antiques in Canton, CT, I noticed this rusty old metal bed frame sitting in their front garden. I couldn't decide if it looked like an object that needed to be discarded or   a potential piece of garden art which had a lot of possibilities. Junk art in the garden always seems to be acceptable when there are lots of other similar pieces in the same garden area and when the object is used as a plant stand or is surrounded by colorful flowers .

Readers, what would you do with this old rusty bed frame?

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Collecting Vintage Japanese Basket Suitcases

Decorating With Old Rattan Suitcases

When you visit Queen Anne Antiques in Canton, CT, you will find stacks of vintage Japanese basket suitcases displayed in all sizes, in several spots in the shop on route 44 in Canton, CT. April is a collector of these unique carfrying cases which are from the 1940s and beyond. Used for many purposes, these basket weaved suitcases appear to be made from either Bamboo or Wicker Rattan tropical grasses. She has them priced from $35-65.00.

Bamboo Versus Wicker Rattan Basket Suitcases 

If you are wondering what the difference is between Bamboo and Wicker Rattan, Wicker is made from rattan cane and Bamboo is a woody tropical grass which is hollow.

I asked April, what exactly she does with these suitcases which she has collected for years and now has brought into her shop. April said she likes to create vignettes with them and even stores some of her favortite collectibles inside. Many people alsothe larger carriers as luggage and the smaller ones for picnics.

If you know more about this topic, please leave a comment. We would love to learn more.

Photos taken by C. Dianne Zweig at Queen Anne Antiques in Canton, CT

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Autumn Light Studio and Gallery Moves To Canton, CT: A Popular Town For Artisans

Chris and Jerry of Autumn Light Studio and Gallery Host Grand Re-Opening in New Canton, CT Location

Chris and Jerry, (not to be confused with Ben and Jerry), have moved their ARTSY store Autumn Light Glass and Art Gallery from Avon to Canton, CT.  As an exhibitor in this wonderful gallery specializing in handcrafted gifts and artwork, I was a little worried about the move since the orginal location across from Marshalls on Route 44 in Avon was a glorious location for this exceptional artisan gallery. But their building was sold and it was time to make a change. Chris and Jerry made a lot of friends in the area, so they are confident that their followers will joyfully join them in their new location, just a few minutes further on Route 44.
   
Art In Canton, CT


Canton is a very art centered town, so the move while inconvenient... may actually yield more art savvy visitors who enjoy nearby Collinsville and the exciting art, music and   special events which have characterized this picturesque region. The nearby Canton Gallery on The Green hosts ongoing exhibits and events in several galleries on two levels. A new art gallery is opening in Collinsville on Main Street, the vision of photographer Tom Kutz.

Move Phase is Now Design Phase

The new Autumn Light Studio and Galleryis shaping up beautifully as Chris and Jerry have recovered from the "move phase" and are now focused on the "design phase".  Chris has sent Jerry off to work in the Canton Post Office system (where he is now has a fan club) so that Chris can concentrate on creating the elaborate displays he is known for.

Grand Re-Opening Brings Loyal Clients To Autumn Light Studio and Gallery

This past weekend was the grand re-opening of this popular art gallery. A sizable client base came to visit Autumn Light's fabulous collection of hand blown glassware, stained glass, textiles, assemblage art, weawrable art, wood, wire, sculpture, paintings, gifts and more. Chris has once again set up a full service stained glass department as well as ongoing classes and workshops in stained glass art and other areas.

Where to find Autumn Light Studio and Gallery

Autumn Light Studio and Gallery

Chris Hayes and Jerry Scelza
250 Albany  Turnpike (Route 44)
Canton, CT

Closed Sun & Mon. Tues-Fri 10-6 , Sat 10-5

860-674-9869

 (Next door to Allstate insurance in the business plaza).


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

I Antique With My ipad And A Bowl of Vanilla Almond Bark Tofutti

My Pinterest.com Boards Are on Fire!

My I Antique Online.com Facebook page is really started to root. My Pinterest.com boards are on fire! And of course my site I Antique Online.com continues to grow with now over 15, 500 members. So welcome to the world of Social Networking.  You might say that when CNN tanked....my social networking time increased.

On The Couch Antiquing  

Oh I do pause to watch an occasional HBO series or  taped shows of the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, but for the most part it is me, my ipad, a bowl of Vanilla Almond Bark Tofutti and my social networks. I love looking at all the photos posted of kitchen collectibles, retro, nostalgia  which come through on the many news feeds I explore.

Isn't It Fun Antiquing Online?

I'm wondering about my readers..... are you spending more and more time on social networks?  Are you  having as much fun as me watching your networks grow and seeing so many antiques and collectibles in such a short period of time. Isn't it fun to go antiquing online?


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Decorating Your Garden With A Chippy Child's Chair

Using An Old Child's Chair As An Outdoor Plant Pedestal

A few years back,  I bought a really banged up, splintered, chippyawfully looking pale yellow vintage children's chair for two bucks at a tag sale. This was a pretty unusual purchase for me, because even though I have written a book about Cottage collectibles and Cottage style decorating, I was never one for buying beat up chairs.


But I thought, hey, let me try to sit this chair on my porch and use it as a plant stand. The chair has been with me now for several summer seasons. The chair has been host to a variety of colorful plants and has even weathered lots of rain and wetness. The chair just seems to survive and gets better and better looking each year!

So after my first experiment with splintered old chairs, I started to pay attention to floral displays at antique shows. Here are some lovely displays I came across last week at The Harwinton Antique Show in Harwinton, C t.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

When Black and White Is All You Need For An Engaging Antique Display

Artsy Antique Displays Which Convey Minimalist Style  

Some people like to stuff their antique booth displays with a lot of collectibles believeing that you need to use up as much expensive space as you can. Other dealers prefer a more artsy look and spend time displaying their objects with just the right balance of interest, shapes, graphic appeal.
I was immediatley draw to the minimalist look of this black and white display at The Harwinton Antiques Show. What do you think...is it too sparse or did it capture your attention and why?


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Industrial Antiques And Collectibles Need Color: Add Flowers To Your Antique Booth Displays

Metal Factory Wash Basin With Colorful Flowers Is A Great Accent To Your Antique Booth

Dealers who sell metal industrial antiques and collectibles know that their booth will look a bit drab unless they add some color. One of the best ways to perk up a booth filled with Factory antiques is too decorate with some live flowers. It seems like such a simple concept, yet many dealers plop their metal  pans, basins, tubs down on a field or in their booth and wonder why sales are slow. Customers need to get ideas....add flowers...and watch your inventory move.


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Mixing Patterned Textiles in An Antique Booth To Show Off Folk Art Antiques And Collectibles

Decoratng Your Antique Booth With Patterned Textiles

Textiles are often used by Antique dealers to add color and interest to Antique booth displays. In my booth at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, 1950s colorful tablecloths are frequently used not only to perk up the booth but because the patterns aand palette of these vintage tablecloths help accentutate the time period of the collectible that I sell.

Strolling around The Harwinton Antiques Show recently, I came across a gal who speciallized in Folk Art, Outsider Art and Americana. She used a combination of a tight patterned Folk Art textille for a wall background with a loose pattern geometric cloth for a tablecloth. Look how ell her booth showed off
her collectibles.

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Tilting An Old Fire Pail To Create A Funky Antique Display

Wonky Antique Booth Displays

Adding interest to an antique display just might mean, tilting your main object so ity is not in it's customary form. While browsing one of the indoor pavillions at a recent Antique show in Harwinton CT, I came across a gal who had plenty of surprises in her quirky antique booth. In the photo show, she took ano old tin Fire pail and presented it on a tilt to complete her funky display.


C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Coffee and Antiques at The Coffee Trade In Avon, CT

Coffee Trade Antiques: A Lovely Coffee Cafe With Charming Antiques and Collectibles

I have spent a lot of time at Coffee Trade Antiques in Avon, CT  over the years. My second book "Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Styule Homes" captured many of the lovely collectibles that Joan, the owner sells.

Great Displays at Coffee Trade Antiques

It is always a pleasure to visit her shop because she is a superb decorator and always has such charming displays. I learned so much over the years from Joan's examples. When you visit The Coffee Trade, you will find Joan's husband Dick upfront in the coffee bar area serving customers or roasting coffee beans. It is also in this area that you will find coffee and tea related housewares, gifts and of course plenty of coffee and tea beverages.

Enjoy A Cup Of Coffee Surrounded By Antiques and Collectibles

As you stroll to the back of this quaint shop, you will enter into the cafe area where you can stay and chat and enjoy a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, smoothies etc.  You will be surrounded by a delightful collection of vintage glassware, teacups, kitchen collectibles, planters,  jewelry, books, textiles, furnishings and more.

If you are visiting the area, be sure to stop into The Coffee Trade , 21 West Main St., Avon, CT Here is their website link  http://www.coffeetradeavon.com/

Photos by C. Dianne Zweig

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Harwinton Antiques and Design Weekend June 7th -June 8th, 2014, Harwinton, CT

Harwinton Antiques Show at Harwinton Fairgrounds

This is a very busy weekend in my neck of the woods. But one place I will surely be is The Harwinton Antiques Weekend June 7-8 in Harwinton, CT. This show was orginally The Farmington Polo Grounds show. The new off of Route 4 in Harwinton is actually not too far fromthe original show. As I have discussed in previous posts about the show, the new venue offers outdoor exhibitors but also pavillons where you can catch a break from the sun or protection from a  dizzle here and there.

Learn How To Decorate With Antiques and Collelctiblels at Harwinton Antique Show

It is one of my favorite shows because many of the dealers set up  exciting and elaborate booths which show youhow to use antiques and collectibles as decorative items. But there are still plenty of  booths where you can poke around and just enjoy the visigtors to the area who bring fresh itrms for sale.

I always come home with a car filled with great stuff. You will find about 60 exhibitors according to the show's official website. Here is the link  http://www.farmingtonantiquesweekend.com/

Photos taken by C. Dianne Zweig at Hawinton Antique Show

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Patriotic Collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT

Colorful Holiday Themed Patriotic Collectibles On Display at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT

One of the dealers at The Collinsville Antiques Company is a designer who recreates vintage collectibles into new versions of the old. He is quite talented.  Over the years he has accumulated quite a collection of his treasures which he displays in holiday themed presentations in his antique booth What makes his booth so exciting is that he mixes in orginal collectibles with the newly designed replicas. His booth is a must see.

Visit:
http://www.collinsvilleantiques.com/

Photos taken by C. Dianne Zweig at Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Clown Haters : Not Exactly Collectors of Clown Dolls and Toys..Find Out Why

Clown Phobics Have A Lot of Company

Why are so many children and adults afraid of clowns. Yes there are plenty of clown collectors out there, but there are also so many people who are seriously spooked by seeing not only real clowns, but clown dolls, toys and figurines. The extreme fear of clowns is called  Coulrophobia. There is even a website devoted to clown haters called I Hate Clowns

 Read more: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/the-history-and-psychology-of-clowns-being-scary-20394516/?c=y%3Fno-ist


Are you a lover or hater of clowns ?...tell us more:

Photo taken by C. Dianne Zweig at the Madison Antique Show, Madison, CT  
  C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Natural Antiques And Collectible Objects make Up The Primitive Organic Look At Queen Anne Antiques, Canton, CT

Queen Anne Antiques, Canton, CT Features "Primitive Organic Style"

Here is a  new term I have been introduced to at Queen Anne Antiques in Canton, CT....."Primitifve Organic". That is how April, the owner of this wonky shop on Route 44 now describes her small but always chock filled shop. April's shop has gone through quite a metamorphorsis over the eyes. She has also moved her store several times and I follow her wherever she goes. Each time she makes a move, her shop changes and that is the fun part.

Primitive Modern Decorating With Collectibles

On a recent visit to April, I did indeed notice that her shop was looking a little different. She explained that she calls it "Primitive Organic". I have heard some people describe this type of decorating style as "Primitive Modern" or "Urban Organic".
You get the point, two or more different
decorating styles are combining featuring an updated version of a familiar yet vintage look.

Decorating With Natural Objects

In the case of the marriage of "Primitive" and "Organic" you will find lots of natural materials such as woods, twines, textiles, baskets, boxes, ceramics, handmade and functional
objects used.

The style has a very tropical or travelled influence. Yet there are also the additions of what we think of as "Primitives" such as tinware, metal containers, early collectibles and antiques.

Queen Anne Antiques
163 Albany Turnpike, Suite 100
Rt. 44, Canton, CT. 06019

860-847-2094
Open Wednesday-Saturday 11-5

Photographs shown taken by C. Dianne Zweig at Queen Anne Antiques, Canton, CT

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Adding Color And Interest To Glassware Displays In An Antique Shop Or Mall

Vintage Game Pieces Add Interest To Depression Era Glass Candy Dish

I spotted this eye catching display at Antique On The Farmington in Collinsville, CT, a pretty vintage glass candy dish was filled with an assortment of game parts such as dice and letters to create a very lively display. It was hard to miss this colorful display as I was strolling this popular multi-dealer store. The game pieces as well as ther dish were for sale .

Photogrpah taken by C. Dianne Zweig at Antiques On The Farmington, Collinsville, CT

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Why Mother's Day Is So Much Work: Confessions of A Baby Boomer Mom

Boomers Unite: Spilling The Beans About Celebrating Mother's Day 

Now that Mother's Day is over, I can share with my readers what they already know.....Mother's Day is a lot of work!  I have talked with many moms with 20 and 30 something aged children and I hear lots of similar stories. First there is the pre-Mother's Day planning. This is the phase when your children are figuring out how to squeeze in a weekend visit with mom and still leave plenty of time   to return to their own apartments to catch up on their chores such as laundry or shopping.  Many "kids" resolve this dilemma by carting their laundry to mom's house. There is something to be said about spending quality time with mom on Mother's Day while folding a month's worth of towels.

Mother's Day Is A Juggling Act

When chores are not the issue, there is often "the juggling act factor" which can get complicated when you are trying to get sibs together for Mother's Day...many of our kids struggle with how to be in three different places at the very same time. Tell me I'm not the only one who is exhausted from trying to get everyone in the same place at the same time?

Visiting Mom For Mother's Day: Time For Negotiations 

Once our kids get the time logistics squared away there are prractical issues like who is paying for what.  This "money" phase generally requires some degree of negotiation. In a nutshell, it comes down to "mom....if you want me to visit...I'll need you to

pay for my bus or train ride".  Smart kids get their parents to pay for both the coming and the going. Smarter parents agree to pay for just one way and that is the return trip (back to their apartments).

Planning Your Mother's Day Weekend Meals: Use A Spread Sheet

Once all the details are ironed out, and everyone is in the comforts of the family home, meals are the next big matter to determine. This require a
lot of attention to what the prevailing diet is for each of your children ( also applies to adult children). If you have three or four or more kids, you may find that by using a spread sheet you   will have better control on the situation. Afterall it is not easy figuring out who is gluten free and vegan; who is lactose intolerant but would accept a soy cheese pizza if they had too, who is Paleo on weekdays but not on the weekend; who is allergic to lobster; who despises mayonaise or spicy mustard or ketchup etc.

With any luck meals are under control and gifts are shared. And that my friends is a topic worthy of another blog post. So readers tell us about your Mother's Day..... was it a lot of work? Come ohn...you are among your baby boomer bloggers...spill the beans.  

Photos taken by C.Dianne Zweig at Antiques on The Famington, Collinsville, CT

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Delightful Vintage Salt and Pepper Shakers Are Favorites Among Collectors

Charming Collectible Salt and Pepper Shakers Are Popular Sellers
This post is about how "charming" sells, especially when you are talking about collectible salt and pepper shakers. If you are a dealer trying to figure out what to buy for your shop or online antique store, consider the "adorable" factor when buying collectibles.

Anthropomorphic Salt and Pepper Shakers   

While salt and pepper shakers of all kinds are highly collectible, the "sweet" ones sell much quicker than others. Anthropomorphic shakers... ones with faces often fall into this category. Other charmers are bluebirds, poodles, doggies,

Look Over Older Salt and Pepper Shakers Before Buying 

In my book "Hot Kitchen and Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s", I devoted an entire chapter to the topic of "Charming Couples". This section not only included salt and pepper shakers, but other figurines of delightful "couples". Be sure when you are buying ceramics and plastics that there are no cracks, chips, staining. It is amazing to me how these once Five and Dimestore items are now being sold for sometimes $18.00-45.00 and more. And guess what,...they sell!

The cuties shown in this article were photographed by C. Dianne Zweig at Antiques on The Farmington, Collinsville, CT

Also see Collector Adore "Cheezy" Anthropomorphic Kitchen Collectibles

Also see Collecting Anthropomorphic Spice Sets

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

The Art of Style: Fine Art & Contemporary Fashion" Featuring The Fuse Factory Artists of The Farmington Valley Arts Center at Bodytalk Boutique May 1, 2014, 5:30-8:00 p.m.

Opening Night, May 1 For The Fuse Factory Artists of The Farmington Valley Arts Center, Avon, CT 

Tonight, May 1, 2014 is a big night for me and my sister Fuse-ettes....tonight, The Fuse FactoryArtists is having the opening reception for our debut show "The Art of Style: Fine Art & Contemporary Fashion" at Bodytalk Boutique, 21 East Main St., Avon, CT.   Our opening wine and cheese reception is from 5:30-8:00 and will also include music and a few surprises. Terry, the amazingly creative manager of Bodytalk and her spirited staff have transformed this popular clothing store into an exciting, vibrant, quirky Chelsea-esque art gallery. Artwork will be on exhibit the entire month of May.


Spring Into Color at Bodytlak Boutique, Avon, CT

Bodytalk's Spring line of stylish clothing  has been paired with coordinating artwork, sculpture and ceramics from eleven different artists who all have studios in the nearby Farmington Valley Arts Center. The Fuse Factory Artists adopted their group name from the original use of the Art Center building which houses the "Climax Fuse Company in 1884.  OK stop laughing..... I didn't know myself, I was renting studio space in such an "exciting" place.

The Fuse Factory Artists An Artist Collective With Members Who Have Studios at The Farmington Valley Arts Center  

Anyway back to our professional group of artists. Our mission is to take our work on the road and to get out of our studio once in a while. There are currently 11 members of this recently formed artist collective with a few fence sitters who are soon to join us.  Melissa Meredith, a Master printmaker at FVAC came up with our wonky name which was enthusiastically adopted by the group. Our terrific logo was designed by group member, Susan Brereton. Getting consensus on our "identity" is a miracle in of itself....have you ever gotten 11 women in a room together to agree on anything ...no less 11 very accomplished juried artists?

Meet The Fuse Factory Artists

Our clan or is it posse, includes Candace Abbott, Ginny August, Annette Baser, Susan Brereton, Claire Fish, Betsy Gardner, Fran Hoffnagle, Danielle Langford, Estelle Laschever, Melisssa Meredith, and yours truly C. Dianne Zweig. Each of the artists works completely differently with works featuring original oil painings, ceramics, pottery, sculpture, Mixed media, Monotypes, collages and more.

Readers Please Tell Others About The Fuse Factory Artists

Please help me out, by spreading the word about our show. Be sure to let me know if you are a blog follower when you visit. Hope to see you soon!

   
C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists

Where Would You Rather Be: Outdoors Mulching Or Junking At A Juicy Flea Market ?

What Is The Mulch Phenomenon: And How Does It Impact On The Antique Shopper ?

If you own an Antique shop or are an Antique dealer in an Antique Mall or outdoor Flea Market, do you notice a drop in business during the early Spring weeks when  people are outdoors cleaning up their property?

I call this the Mulch Phenomenon, a noticiable dip in biz when the snow is gone and the yard needs work. You would think that the warmer weather ( especially in the Northeast) would bring hunters and shoppers out of their caves and into our stores and markets, but that is not always the case.

Time To Go Out Antiquing...The Lawn Can Wait
I chuckle everytime someone makes a promise to try to deal with their lawn and flower issues earlier each year than they actually do. Kinda hard to split Hosta plants with a blanket of snow...do ya think?    

And will someone please tell me the purpose of blowing off the leaves from your  lawn when leaves from your neighbor's lawn come right back over to your lawn to take the place of your blown off leaves.

It's Flea Market Time

O.K., it's time to go antiquing.....readers where would you rather be outdoors mulching or browsing an exciting   Antique Mall or outdoors at a juicy Flea Market?  

C. Dianne Zweig is the author of Hot Kitchen & Home Collectibles of the 30s, 40s, 50s and Hot Cottage Collectibles for Vintage Style Homes. She is also the Editor of I Antique Online an actively growing internet based resource community for people who buy, sell or collect antiques, collectibles and art. You can find Dianne’s fabulous retro and vintage kitchen, home and cottage collectibles at The Collinsville Antiques Company of New Hartford, CT, a 22,000 feet antique emporium with an in-house retro café. To read more articles by C. Dianne Zweig click on this link: C. Dianne Zweig’s Blog Kitsch ‘n Stuff Email me at dianne@cdiannezweig.com Visit my website, CDianneZweig.com Dianne is a member of: The American Society of Journalists and Authors The Society of Professional Journalists